THE NORTH American “no wrong door” model for business support should be piloted in the western region, according to an employment study.
A system of cross-referrals spearheaded in Kansas and Wisconsin ensures that business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs are “always at the right door”, the study by the Western Development Commission says.
“This approach recognises that while a ‘one-stop shop’ for business support may be desirable, it may not be possible in the short term, or may not provide the specialised services required.”
An integrated approach to education, enterprise and employment – the three “Es” – is fundamental to regional and national economic growth, the study, commissioned from NUI Galway, says.
The report, the fourth in a series of policy papers published by the commission for the western region, notes that many people no longer follow a “linear” path of school, further or higher education and then work or business.
“Entrepreneurs often set up business while in employment or education, and lifelong learning is increasingly common with unemployment now an additional driver,” it says. “If every person, whether learner, entrepreneur, employee, jobseeker (or two or more of these at the same time) encounters coherent ‘three E’ services . . . there will be better outcomes for the individual, economy and society.”
The commission recommends identifying and responding to regional skills needs.
It proposes “brokering” relations between higher education and enterprise, with a single point of contact. Jobseekers in smaller centres and rural areas should be supported in accessing education and work placements through local “learning mentors”, it says.
It also recommends new skills programmes for young men who have lost jobs in construction.